Tripler Army Medical Center is seeking a Dental Sterilization Technician to join our growing team!  

At Tripler, you will practice alongside civilian and military health care experts and experience unique professional opportunities. Our staff serves by caring for our military but are not subject to military requirements. We operate within safe staffing standards - giving you time to provide exceptional care. 

Also known as the “big pink building on the hill”, Tripler is a 450 bed, Level II Trauma facility and participates in unique partnerships with civilian facilities to provide care to non-beneficiary trauma victims. 

Want to hear what it’s like to work at Tripler? Check it out: https://youtu.be/b6E1XBHlEyc 

In addition to salary, employees will receive an 8.9% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA); subject to change.   

Working for the Department of Defense comes with an abundance of benefits and perks to include competitive compensation packages, paid-time off, medical benefits, student loan repayments, and retirement package with Thrift Savings Plan to include matching employer contributions. For more information, please visit the following link: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/benefits/ 

MAJOR DUTIES

1. DENTAL STERILIZATION. Receives, disassembles and inspects dental supplies, instruments and equipment. Selects appropriate methods for sterilizing, balancing time constraints with possible detrimental effects of quicker methods. Removes gross contamination, soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids by utilizing both manual and mechanical cleaning methods, micro-biotical processes, and work practice controls (e.g. wiping, soaking, rinsing, scrubbing and operating ultrasonic cleaners and instrument washers). Tests operation of equipment on a daily basis for effectiveness of sterilization using chemical, mechanical, and biological monitoring systems. Compares test results with standard parameters (e.g. time, temperature and pressure) and takes appropriate corrective action when deviations exist. Troubleshoots and explains the proper use of the equipment and obtains needed repairs. Stores items in such a way as to preserve the sterile condition. Conducts periodic inventory supplies, instruments and equipment and determine reordering needs. Fills requests for items based on daily schedules or individual requisitions. Suggests substitutions for items that are not available. Assemble trays and sets arranging instruments in the correct manner. Selects the correct wrapping for the tray, wraps and labels it Inspects packages for indicators of proper sterilization, aerates packages, labeling items to show date of sterilization, load number. Maintains records of processes performed. Preserves records in accordance with established policy.

2. DENTAL ASSISTING. Assists dentist provide treatments to patients. Procedures may include complex restorative procedures, oral pathology, prosthodontic, periodontic, endodontic, pedodontic, or orthodontic treatments in the dental treatment room, using knowledge of a large array of specialized instruments, materials, and dental techniques. Operates and adjusts dental equipment. Monitors patients to detect signs of shock or reactions to treatments.

3. KNOWLEDGE SHARING. Provides training, mentoring and orientation to less experienced staff on dental sterilization techniques; procedures and principles; storage/issue of associated supplies; and equipment. Prepare job aids and other tools to assist clinic staff.

Performs other duties as assigned.